Thousands of New Zealanders take to the streets in support of Palestine, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza

The Chronify

September 13, 2025

Thousands joined a pro‑Palestine march in Auckland, New Zealand. Organisers say this is the largest such march since the war in Gaza began. About 50,000 people took part on Saturday, though New Zealand Police estimate the number could be around 20,000. A spokesperson for Aotearoa for Palestine, Arama Rata, said this is the biggest demonstration in support of Palestinians since hostilities erupted.

The Palestinian authorities reported that 64,756 people have been killed so far in the Gaza war. Human rights groups say a famine has been created in Gaza due to food shortages. Many marchers carried Palestinian banners and flags at Saturday’s protest.

Some protesters chanted slogans like “Don’t normalize genocide,” and “Stand with Palestine.” Organisers had planned to close a major bridge in the city, but strong winds prevented that. Police say no arrests were made during the march.

Media reported that Aotearoa for Palestine had called for New Zealand’s centre‑right government to impose sanctions on Israel. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, in August, called Israel’s actions in Gaza “terrible.”

There is also consideration underway as to whether New Zealand will formally recognise a Palestinian state. The New Zealand Jewish Council has not made any comment on the march.